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NMSU ROTC to host Las Cruces location of ?largest run in military history?

The New Mexico State University Air Force and Army ROTC will celebrate the Junior Reserve Officer?s Training Corps (JROTC) centennial by hosting the Las Cruces location of the Anniversary 5K Fun Run on Saturday, April 23.

?The Junior ROTC organization is trying to break a world record for the most participants in a military 5K by sponsoring this nationwide event,? said Lt. Col. Jeremiah Klomp, NMSU Air Force ROTC commander and professor of aerospace studies in the College of Arts and Sciences.

The 5K will be held simultaneously at locations worldwide, with the Las Cruces event beginning at 9 a.m. at NMSU?s Young Hall, 1300 S. Horseshoe Dr.

JROTC is a military-supported high school program that educates and develops high school students in the area of military leadership and discipline, while making them aware of the benefits of active citizenship, Klomp explained.

The JROTC curriculum emphasizes academics, citizenship, character development, leadership skills, physical fitness and community service. Three local high schools ? Las Cruces, Mayfield and Onate ? currently have JROTC units.

?This event is a great opportunity to share more information about the JROTC programs and available classes for local high school students,? Klomp said. ?The Air Force and Army ROTC detachments at NMSU are proud to support the JROTC units in our local high schools wherever and whenever we can.?